Five others and two posthumous recipients also will be recognized on Oct. 18 at Stockton Civic Memorial Auditorium.

Susan Carson, a one-time radio-station owner (KFMR, KWG) who operated the Bijou Theatre as an art-film venue, will be given the Patron Award.

Donna Brown, a political consultant, member of the library literacy board and former deputy city manager, receives the Founder’s Award.

Lisa and Mike Whirlow, who’ve turned their Tossed and Grilled restaurant on Pacific Avenue into a regular live-music venue while helping in charitable and philanthropic endeavors, get the Comet Award.

Margret Smallie, a ballet dancer and instructor who operates her own studio, will be recognized for “outstanding arts education.”

So will Thomas Derthick for his musical contributions. Conductor of the Central Valley Youth Symphony, the bassist has taught at University of University of the Pacific since 1988 and plays in several Sacramento groups.

Posthumous awards will be given to German Aguilar and Joseph “Jerry” Rodgers.

Aguilar, a vocalist, directed San Joaquin Delta College’s choir program for four years. As an assistant director of the Stockton Symphony, he founded the Valley Youth Chamber Choir. He died at age 34 on June 7 while performing in Italy.

Rodgers, a formative part of Stockton Civic Theatre’s evolution as an actor, set designer and director, also taught high-school in Stockton before moving on to a 53-year theater career in New York. He died at 80 on June 25 in Greenwich Village.

Never miss a story

Choose the plan that's right for you.
Digital access or digital and print delivery.